PhD Built Environment Research Degrees

The PhD in Built Environment Research opens doors to exciting career opportunities in management, academia, and beyond. This programme allows students to pursue their research, receiving guidance from expert supervisors with broad industry connections. By applying the university's strong and professional networks, students can study innovative ideas and make meaningful contributions to their field.

This research programme studies the relationship between humans and their physical environment to improve existing and future conditions. Students start with an eight-week Postgraduate Certificate in Research Practice, laying the groundwork for doctoral-level study. 

The programme ends in original research, a thesis submission, and a viva voce examination, where students showcase their findings and contribute meaningfully to the field.

Birmingham City University is an established institution located centrally in Birmingham, it can be traced back to 1843, It was first know as a polytechnic named The City of Birmingham Polytechnic in 1971, it later brought together individual colleges and gained a full university status in 1992, which became named the University of Central England in Birmingham. Finally, it got its current name, Birmingham City University, in 2007. 

It is out for its track record in graduate employability, with a good percentage of students getting jobs or pursuing further education shortly after graduation. The university's strong industry connections also promote a thriving entrepreneurial spirit, supporting many student and graduate business ventures in the region. 

The university's commitment to excellence has been recognised with the highest rating of Gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF 2023). This prestigious award acknowledges the outstanding quality of teaching, assessment, and academic support provided by BCU's experienced staff, many of whom maintain strong links with their respective industries. With a focus on employment, innovation, and student success, Birmingham City University is an excellent choice for students looking to launch their careers.

Applicants must submit a personal statement, academic or employer reference, and optionally, a CV to build a picture of their work experience.

Grade Requirements:

• Applicants should hold a Master's degree in a subject relevant to this course from a British or International university. 
• Exceptional candidates who do not possess a Master's degree, but have a first-class or upper second-class Bachelor's degree in a relevant subject area, are also considered. 
• Prospective PhD researchers with relevant professional experience are encouraged to apply. 

English Proficiency: 

• Applicants need an IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with a minimum of 6.0 in each category. 
• Other accepted English language tests include TOEFL iBT (typically with a score of 88) and the Duolingo English Test.

For the 2025/26 academic year, the tuition fees for the PhD Built Environment Research programme for international students are as follows:

• Full-time (3-4 years): £15,120
• Part-time (4-7 years): £7,560
• Distance Learning - International Part-time: £9,450

Birmingham City University offers different general funding options for doctoral students. These include the Graduate Scholarship, which provides a 20% fee reduction for BCU graduates applying for a PhD for the first time and Government-backed Postgraduate Doctoral Loans, offering up to £29,390, are available to eligible UK, Irish, and EU nationals also, the universities PhD Studentships, which are funded opportunities supported by the university or external organisations, often tied to specific research projects. It is important to note that the general International Postgraduate Scholarships are not for PhD programmes.

A PhD in Built Environment Research prepares graduates for advanced roles as:

• Academic Researcher / Lecturer
• Senior Urban Strategist
• Planning Policy Advisor
• Research and Development Manager
• Sustainable Development Specialist
• High-level Environmental Consultant

To apply for this course, students should use the formal online application. If you have questions or need assistance with your application, please reach out to our trained counsellors.